Molded-composite chassis for a wheelchair
US5320373A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 20, 1992 |
| Grant date | Jun 14, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 20, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S297/04
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A chassis is provided having two longitudinal sides, one or more cross-bars between the sides, and two torsion forwardly and downwardly extending arms terminating in sleeves for holding snap-in casters. When attached to the other wheelchair components, the arms create a space therebetween and under the wheelchair seat for storage of optional items. The molded chassis may be tailored to performance specifications and is constructed from composite material, preferably by compression molding using sheet molding compound or by resin transfer molding. Shock and vibration attenuating characteristics are selectable and the chassis sides may be of one or multiple piece construction. Each longitudinal side includes two vertically extending posts for attaching a seat, the posts providing a height, seat pan angle and center of gravity adjustment mechanism for the seating system relative to the chassis. The drive wheels are attached to camber plugs which are secured within recesses in the sides. The camber plugs are interchangeable and include a variety of selected camber angles. In another aspect of the present invention, the cross-bars are of adjustable width thereby permitting the width of …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.